Managing Behaviour

Top Tips for Managing Behaviour in Schools

Managing classroom behaviour effectively can transform every school day. When your class is calm and focused, lessons become more productive, and as a result, you can make a real difference in pupils’ lives.

At its heart, behaviour management is about relationships. In other words, it involves building, sustaining, and working on connections even when pupils seem disengaged. While experience helps, these skills can also be strengthened through training and reflection.

That is why we offer a range of Behaviour Management videos on our eLearning Zone. These practical resources provide teacher behaviour management tips and examples, helping staff manage classroom behaviour confidently and consistently.

Begin every lesson with confidence

First impressions matter. Therefore, walk into the classroom calmly and with purpose. Smile genuinely to set a positive tone and reassure pupils who may be unsettled by a new face. Introduce yourself clearly, write your name on the board, and explain what you expect from the lesson.  To view a short video on making a good first impression click here.

In addition, simple routines such as taking the register quietly or starting with a short starter activity help pupils understand expectations and feel secure. Implementing clear classroom behaviour strategies from the start also helps maintain focus and reduces disruption.

Build positive relationships

Behaviour management is not just about discipline; it is about connection. For example, when you greet pupils, use their names and show interest in their progress. This approach creates mutual respect and fosters a positive classroom environment.

Moreover, be specific with praise. Instead of saying “good job,” try “I really appreciate how you focused straight away.” These small moments of recognition build trust, improve engagement, and over time, reduce disruptive behaviour.

Stay calm and consistent

When behaviour slips, remain calm. Use a steady, clear voice and refer back to the school behaviour policy. Consistency builds trust and helps pupils understand that expectations are fair and predictable.

Always remember to:

• Use professional, respectful language

• Allow personal space

• Avoid taking comments personally

If disruption continues, follow the school’s escalation procedure rather than reacting in frustration. Consistent behaviour management strategies are essential for maintaining a safe and productive learning environment.

Use attention strategies effectively

Clear attention strategies prevent small distractions from becoming bigger problems. For younger pupils, interactive techniques such as clapping patterns or call and response work well.

Similarly, in secondary classes, standing confidently at the front and using a countdown to quiet can be effective. The key is consistency, so pupils respond to routines they recognise. These classroom behaviour strategies help maintain focus and engagement throughout the lesson.

Understand what drives behaviour

Many factors can affect classroom behaviour, from difficulties at home to unmet emotional or learning needs. For some pupils, school may be the safest place they know. Therefore, respond with calmness and empathy, and always record or report concerns appropriately.

For low-level disruption, focus on teaching the majority rather than allowing a few pupils to dominate. In addition, quietly separate pupils if needed and note any incidents for the class teacher. Understanding the reasons behind behaviour is a crucial part of effective behaviour management in schools – for more insight watch our short ‘why children misbehave‘ video.

Maintain professionalism and boundaries

Professional conduct sets the tone for the classroom. Avoid discussing personal opinions or sharing details about your life.

Maintain boundaries at all times, if a pupil leaves the room, do not block the door. Instead, note their name and report it immediately. Follow the school’s policies on managing behaviour, safeguarding, and food handling, and seek advice if unsure, this keeps everyone safe.

Reflect and hand over effectively

After a lesson, take a few minutes to reflect. Ask yourself what worked well, and what could you do differently next time?

Effective behaviour management allows everyone to learn and thrive. By greeting pupils positively, setting clear expectations, staying calm, and acting professionally, you help create a safe and supportive environment where all pupils can succeed.

Explore these classroom behaviour strategies in more detail in our Behaviour Management eLearning Zone, which features short, practical videos full of advice, tips, and real-life classroom examples.